Shop Cyber Monday, but safely

Associated Press file photograph
A person searches the internet for sales on cyber Monday. With the holidays fast approaching, more people are using their smartphones and other devices to get a handle on their last-minute shopping. Hackers are on the hunt too, looking to steal personal information from easy targets. But experts say a few precautions can go a long way in protecting yourself from cyber Scrooges.

The Season of Sharing has turned into the Season of Shopping, what with Black Friday and Small Business Saturday barely over and Cyber Monday is under way.

Before going online to snag some Christmas gift deals, take a moment to make sure your identifying information is safe.

Business2community.com warns that criminals hope you’ll be so fascinated by potential bargains that you’ll “click before you think” — and unwittingly make yourself vulnerable.

According to the website, “Enigma Software’s 2015 report showed a 76 percent spike in malware infections just on Cyber Monday,” with the 2014 report showed just a 40 percent jump on the same day that year.

Spoofed or phishing websites resembling those of real companies can fool you, as could spoofed or phishing emails.

• Shop using a secure connection and always look for the “https” lock symbol in your browser.

• Don’t use debit cards online, a credit card may offer more protection against fraud.

• Use unique passwords and login information for every site you visit.

• Never install software on your mobile device from a website link or code.

Officials with blog.malwarebytes.com have their own advice regarding Cyber Monday shopping. They include:

• Watch out for malicious QR codes, which they describe as “small, pixelated codes meant to be scanned by a smartphone’s camera.” These codes, it seems, can contain everything from coupons to website links — perhaps containing phishing or malware applications.

• Don’t give out information including Social Security numbers or password security questions. This should be a huge red flag.

• Make sure your computer’s security and other software are up to date.

As always, just be aware and remember — if something seems to good to be true, it probably is.